simplicity

[sim-plis-i-tee]

noun

plural

simplicities 

1. the state, quality, or an instance of being simple.

2. freedom from complexity, intricacy, or division into parts.

   an organism of great simplicity.

3. absence of luxury, pretentiousness, ornament, etc.; plainness.

   a life of simplicity.

4. freedom from deceit or guile; sincerity; artlessness; naturalness.

   a simplicity of manner.

   Synonyms: honesty, directness, candor

5. lack of mental acuteness or shrewdness.

   Politics is not a field for simplicity about human nature.

simplicity

/ sɪmˈplɪsɪtɪ /

noun

1. the quality or condition of being simple

Other Word Forms

• nonsimplicity noun
• oversimplicity noun
• supersimplicity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of simplicity¹

1325–75; Middle English simplicite (< Old French simplicité ) < Latin simplicitās simpleness, equivalent to simplici- (stem of simplex ) simplex + -tās -ty ²

Example Sentences

There is a clever simplicity to the film, laced within the hidden complexities of a fine piece of tailoring.

From Los Angeles Times

“There’s a simplicity to a song like ‘Lovin’ You,’ but when I say ‘simplicity,’ that doesn’t mean it’s easy,” Rushen says.

From Los Angeles Times

And while his lyrics can be clumsy, their unguarded simplicity bypasses criticism.

From BBC

“I think the simplicity is what really draws people,” Arevalo said.

From Los Angeles Times

Judges said his work had "a deceptive simplicity" and was a "brave risk-taking painting" with "nuanced humour".

From BBC

Related Words

• candor 
• clarity 
• directness www.thesaurus.com
• integrity 
• modesty 
• purity 
• restraint 
• unity